The Spinnaker Tower is a magnificent landmark in Portsmouth, England, that stands proudly at 170 meters tall. It is one of the most iconic buildings in England and is a popular tourist destination for sightseeing and Portsmouth attractions. The tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Portsmouth skyline, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight.
History of the Spinnaker Tower
The Spinnaker Tower was designed by HGP Architects and was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in October 2005. It was built to commemorate the new millennium and the regeneration of Portsmouth’s waterfront area. The tower is a unique structure that is inspired by the shape of a spinnaker sail, which is a type of sail used in yachting.
Attractions at the Spinnaker Tower
The Spinnaker Tower is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Sky Deck: This is the highest viewing platform, located at the top of the tower, and offers stunning 360-degree views of the Portsmouth skyline, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight.
- The Cloudbase Viewing Platform: This is the second highest viewing platform and is located at the mid-level of the tower. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
- The Harbour Tour: This is a unique tour that takes visitors around the harbour in a boat. The tour is narrated by a guide and provides interesting facts and information about the area.
- The Gift Shop: The gift shop at the Spinnaker Tower offers a range of souvenirs and mementos to remember your visit.
- The Café: The café at the tower offers a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals.
What to Expect at the Spinnaker Tower
When visiting the Spinnaker Tower, there are a few things that you should expect. Firstly, the tower is very tall and the views from the top are breathtaking. Secondly, the tower is wheelchair accessible and there are lifts available to take visitors to the different levels. Thirdly, the tower has a range of attractions, including the Sky Deck, the Cloudbase Viewing Platform, the Harbour Tour, the Gift Shop, and the Café.
Tours at the Spinnaker Tower
The Spinnaker Tower offers a range of guided tours for visitors. The Tower Tour is a guided tour of the tower that takes visitors to the different levels and provides information about the history and architecture of the tower. The Harbour Tour is a unique tour that takes visitors around the harbour in a boat. The tour is narrated by a guide and provides interesting facts and information about the area.
Admission to the Spinnaker Tower
Admission to the Spinnaker Tower is free for children under the age of 5 and for carers accompanying disabled visitors. For other visitors, tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office at the tower. Prices vary depending on the type of ticket and the type of tour.
Tips for Tourists Visiting the Spinnaker Tower
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tower is very tall and there are a lot of stairs.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top.
- Take the Harbour Tour for an interesting and informative tour of the area.
- Visit the gift shop to pick up a souvenir or memento of your visit.
- Visit the café for a hot or cold drink or a light meal.
Practical Information for Tourists Visiting the Spinnaker Tower
The Spinnaker Tower is located at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, England. The tower is open from 10am to 6pm daily, except for Christmas Day when it is closed. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office at the tower. Parking is available at Gunwharf Quays, and there is a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby.
The Spinnaker Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Portsmouth. With its majestic height and stunning views, it is one of England’s iconic buildings and a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Portsmouth or Portsmouth sightseeing, the Spinnaker Tower is sure to impress.
